Glamping options near Aylett, Virginia provide easy access to the Mattaponi River, which flows through King and Queen County before joining the Pamunkey River to form the York River. Most campgrounds in this area sit at elevations below 100 feet above sea level, creating a coastal plain environment with mild winters and humid summers. The camping season typically runs from April through November, with limited year-round options due to occasional winter freezes.
What to do
Kayaking on the Mattaponi River: The river provides excellent paddling opportunities directly accessible from Rainbow Acres Campground. "Rainbow acres is a nice little campground that is the perfect get away. Its quiet and right on the Mattaponi River," notes camper Chris B. The river's gentle current makes it suitable for beginners.
Fossil hunting at nearby beaches: Take a short drive to Westmoreland State Park Campground where you can search for prehistoric shark teeth. "We came from Pa/De and wanted to look for sharks teeth. It was beautiful here so we decided to stay the night," shares Sara A. The park maintains a sharks' teeth display in their shop.
Mountain biking on established trails: The region offers extensive trail networks for cycling enthusiasts. "The tent sites are awesome and mine have always been pretty private feeling despite being somewhat near others," reports RL about Westmoreland State Park. Many trails connect directly to campsites, allowing for convenient riding without driving.
What campers like
Clean facilities with heated bathhouses: Winter campers particularly appreciate the comfort of temperature-controlled amenities. "Bathhouses are always SO clean and heated in the winter. So appreciate the recycling bins," notes RL about their experience at Westmoreland. This makes shoulder season camping more comfortable when temperatures drop.
Seasonal Halloween events: Fall camping brings special programming at several sites. "Had a great time for Halloween here. Will be back," says Jason L. about his stay at Richmond North - Kings Dominion KOA. The campground decorations and themed activities create memorable experiences for visitors.
Fishing opportunities throughout the region: Many campgrounds provide water access for anglers. At Ed Allen's Campground and Cottages, visitors appreciate the "huge lake to go fishing" according to Gary G. who also noted they "had a barbeque dinner for everyone."
What you should know
Train noise affects light sleepers: Some campgrounds in the area sit near active rail lines. "Only issue is you are right next to the train tracks so if you are a light sleeper you will hear those trains throughout the night," warns Alexas H. about Ed Allen's Campground. Bringing earplugs may help sensitive sleepers.
Weather considerations for tent campers: The region experiences significant summer humidity and occasional strong storms. "We picked up tarps and ropes and strung them up over our cooking area and the entrance to our tents," shares Katie B. about her stay at Chickahominy Riverfront Park. Extra rain protection is advisable.
Varied site conditions: The quality and size of campsites can vary significantly within the same campground. "We needed a place just for the night so it worked out, but I wouldn't choose to stay for any length of time. Thats partly because we like campgrounds that are more woodsy and don't have cement slab sites," notes Tracy D. about their KOA experience.
Tips for camping with families
Look for campgrounds with designated children's areas: Family-friendly amenities make a significant difference. "This is a great place for families with children, young and old! Kid friendly biking around the park. Also saw many with electric scooters and golf carts. Large playground and pool, all very clean and well kept," recommends Cat R. about Richmond North KOA.
Consider campgrounds with swimming options: Water activities provide entertainment during hot summer days. "The pool was perfect for a quick dip and the park was clean- lots of garbage cans and all the staff were friendly and helpful," notes Anne M. about her family's visit to the Kings Dominion KOA.
Seek out sites with educational opportunities: Several campgrounds offer learning activities for children. "I love the sharks' teeth display in the shop and when I was there they were working on putting bones together of a whale that was found!" shares RL about their glamping experience at Westmoreland State Park.
Tips from RVers
Reserve larger sites when available: RV campers note the importance of adequate space. "Wooded Lots. Due to Covid and the proximity to a temporarily closed King's Dominion this campground was very quiet. We enjoyed a larger pull through lot that faced the woods," explains Scott T. about his stay at Kings Dominion KOA.
Check hookup locations before setting up: At some campgrounds, connections can be difficult to locate. "The mud and puddles were so bad we couldn't locate the sewer connection. But the next day they came over and found it for us and leveled out some gravel piles," shares Brenda L. about her experience at Thousand Trails Williamsburg.
Consider tree coverage when positioning larger rigs: Satellite reception and maneuverability can be affected by wooded sites. "The sites are close, many are not level, not very big rig friendly and satellite is near impossible due to trees," warns Trina C. about Thousand Trails. Requesting more open sites may help if connectivity is important.
